Unbiased Reviews and Undercover Price Research on Local Services

Before you join a gym or sign up for a bunch of fitness classes, think realistically about what activities you are likely to participate in and how often you’ll do them. If you have never exercised before or haven’t in ages, will you stick to a new regimen? Most people who join clubs stop using them after only a few months—but keep right on paying for a long time. Many gyms and fitness studios let you try them out for free for a few visits, or offer short-term memberships or small packages of visits to let you dip your toe into cardio/yoga/weightlifting/etc. without a big commitment. Start by taking advantage of these intro offers.

If you still want to join up, our ratings of clubs for quality and price should help you choose a gym. We found that some charge more than twice as much as their competitors for about the same facilities and amenities. Because many clubs offer several membership options—and may offer the best deals only if it’s necessary to close a sale—make sure to ask for the best available rates. Before signing any contract, ask about cancellation and freeze rules, and make sure any promises made put in writing.

Gyms & Fitness Centers Articles

Before joining a gym, think about your own motivations and interests—and consider alternatives. Set realistic fitness goals, then think about whether you really need to pay a company big bucks for activities that are probably available more cheaply elsewhere.

When comparing fitness clubs, consider several points, including what its members say, its location, membership fees, contract terms, facilities and equipment, classes, and amenities. Our ratings of area clubs will help you find the right fit.

Membership at many clubs doesn’t come cheap. Although some bare-bones gyms cost less than $300 a year, many charge more than $600. Want a club that offers racquet sports or a wide range of facilities and amenities? Expect to pay a lot more.

Expensive workout studios and “boutique” gyms specializing in just one or two exercises are exploding in popularity. Before you spend so much dough to get less doughy, check to see if there are ways to cut costs.

When comparing the offerings from fitness clubs, check the facilities at recreation centers run by local governments. Many jurisdictions offer fitness club-type facilities that are much less expensive to use than comparably equipped fitness clubs.